Now these are some serious drums! Taiko drums originate in Japan where they were used by the Japanese army to help set a marching pace for the soldiers. Taiko ensembles like this have only been around for about fifty years or so, but they can put on some incredibly impressive displays of both physical agility and rhythmic precision.

This video features Gary Burton, one of the world's leading vibraphone players. With the help of four mallets Gary is able to produce shimmering melodies and harmonies on his instrument. The music is Libertango by Argentinian composer Astor Piazzolla.

This is Dennis Chambers, one of my favourite jazz drummers. In this solo, Dennis keeps things interesting combining complex rhythms with the full range of sounds on his kit. You'll hear sections in this piece where there is a clear beat, and others where the beat is much freer. Controlling the groove in this way is central to jazz drumming style.

Taiko Drums

Now these are some serious drums! Taiko drums originate in Japan where they were used by the Japanese army to help set a marching pace for the soldiers. Taiko ensembles like this have only been around for about fifty years or so, but they can put on some incredibly impressive displays of both physical agility and rhythmic precision.

Jazz Vibes

This video features Gary Burton, one of the world's leading vibraphone players. With the help of four mallets Gary is able to produce shimmering melodies and harmonies on his instrument. The music is Libertango by Argentinian composer Astor Piazzolla.

Dennis Solo

This is Dennis Chambers, one of my favourite jazz drummers. In this solo, Dennis keeps things interesting combining complex rhythms with the full range of sounds on his kit. You'll hear sections in this piece where there is a clear beat, and others where the beat is much freer. Controlling the groove in this way is central to jazz drumming style.